The San Antonio Spurs have quickly become the NBA’s most entertaining team, driven by the magic of Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and a youthful core that’s playing beyond its years. Off to a 4–0 start and sitting atop the Western Conference, the Spurs have done it all — without All-Star point guard De’Aaron Fox in the lineup.
One player stepping into that void is 2025 second overall pick Dylan Harper, who’s already proving that the hype surrounding him was more than justified. Averaging 14.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, Harper has made an instant impact on both ends of the floor. After scoring 11 points in Monday night’s win over the Toronto Raptors, he joined elite company — becoming one of only four rookies in Spurs history to score in double figures in each of their first four career games.
The others? Victor Wembanyama, Willie Anderson, and David Robinson.
Coming off the bench behind Castle, Harper still has plenty to prove this season despite being the No. 2 overall pick. Yet, he’s already made history. Through his first three games, the 6’5” guard totaled 48 points, 15 rebounds, and 13 assists, making him just the second rookie in NBA history to post such numbers as a reserve — joining none other than his teammate, De’Aaron Fox.
Harper currently shares the team lead in assists per game (4.8) with Castle and has shown a maturity in his playmaking that’s rare for a first-year guard. Some around the league believe he could eventually surpass Fox as the Spurs’ long-term option at point guard. With whispers circulating that San Antonio could explore trade options for Fox, the duo of Harper and Castle may already be convincing the front office they’re the future.
If those rumors materialize, the Spurs could emerge even stronger — and Harper would have every opportunity to keep rewriting the record books.
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